Smart glasses equipped with cameras, recognition systems, and real-time connectivity are helping police officers on the streets of Tianjin quickly identify objects, signs, and license plates, turning once science-fiction-like technology into a daily policing tool.

Supported by big data, the devices can detect anomalies in real time and improve patrol efficiency, according to local police.

"These glasses make our patrols much more efficient, helping us proactively identify and respond to situations," said Zhao Baoxin, an officer at the Jiefang Road Police Station under the Heping District Public Security Sub-bureau.

Developed by Tianjin public security authorities using domestic hardware and software, the smart glasses are being used in traffic management, street patrols, and searches for missing people.

While violent crime remains relatively rare in China, the devices are mainly used for public services such as assisting residents, directing traffic, and locating missing elderly people.

The technology will be showcased at the 2026 World Intelligence Expo, scheduled to take place in Tianjin from May 28 to 31.

Sun Yinghua, an officer with the Mobile Policing Detachment of the Tianjin Public Security Bureau, said the glasses achieve a recognition accuracy rate of 99.5 percent and can return results within milliseconds.

Smart policing technologies are also expanding nationwide. In Jinyun county, Zhejiang province, AI glasses have already been used to make vehicle inspection more efficient, while in Chengdu, Sichuan province, smart glasses work alongside robots and drones to support public safety operations.

Zhong Aiyamei, Hu Yang, and Wang Jingxu contributed to this story.